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Silver Screen, Platinum Seating

Raul Allen

By Ian Rowley and Hiroko Tashiro in Tokyo

Silver Screen, Platinum Seating

With a plethora of new movie theaters to compete with, some of Tokyo’s multiplexes are trying to raise their profile by increasing their cachet. In July, theater operator Shochiku introduced two private viewing rooms at its Shinjuku Piccadilly cinema. For $280, two people—celebrities craving privacy, maybe, or a couple enjoying an anniversary—can watch the latest film in one of two private spaces outfitted with Italian sofas and top-notch audio systems. Customers, who enter and leave by private elevator, also get free Champagne and snacks as they watch such hits as 20th Century Boys, based on a smash manga series. For those who can’t afford the private digs (which are popular, but not selling out, Shochiku says), there are $47 tickets for posh “platinum seats” at the Piccadilly, with access to the multiplex’s upscale café.